This Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole is a fun and cozy dish! It features crispy tater tots topped with spicy chili and lots of melted cheese. It’s perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in.
Who can resist tater tots? I always sneak a few off the top before it even goes to the table! This casserole is super easy to make—just layer, bake, and enjoy all the cheesy goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tater Tots: The star of this dish! Frozen tater tots are convenient and crispy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use sweet potato tater tots or make your own with grated potatoes, though that takes more effort!
Chili: You can use any canned chili you love, whether it has beans or not. For a homemade version, cook ground meat with beans, tomatoes, and spices. I also enjoy using vegetarian chili for a plant-based twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives that classic cheesy goodness. Medium or sharp cheddar works well, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. Go for a block of cheese and shred it yourself for the best melt!
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, consider using Greek yogurt or a plant-based sour cream. Cream cheese could also work, but remember to soften it before mixing!
Green Onions/Chives: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor that brightens the dish. If you don’t have them, parsley or even cilantro can be a nice alternative!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Tater Tots?
The key to getting that delightful crunch on your tater tots is all about the baking time and temperature. Begin by layering them evenly on the chili mixture to allow for even cooking.
- First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is perfect for crisping up the tots.
- Lay your frozen tater tots on top of the chili in a single, even layer. Avoid overcrowding, which can lead to soggy tots.
- Bake for 25 minutes. If you prefer extra crispiness, consider flipping them halfway through.
- After adding the cheese, return to the oven for 10 more minutes. The cheese should melt beautifully and turn slightly bubbly.
Remember, letting the casserole cool for a few minutes helps everything set, making it easier to serve!
Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole: A Delicious Comfort Food!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 2 cans (15 oz each) chili (with or without beans, depending on preference)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35 minutes to bake, making a total of 45 minutes. It’s super quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure everything cooks evenly and helps those tater tots stay crispy.
2. Mix the Chili Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chili, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together well so that every bite is packed with flavor!
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Next, pour the chili mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly across the bottom of the dish so every bit gets to enjoy the deliciousness that’s coming!
4. Layer the Tater Tots:
Now it’s time to layer! Carefully place the frozen tater tots on top of the chili mixture. Make sure they are in a single layer for the best crispiness.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. You’re looking for those tater tots to be golden brown and crispy. The smell will be amazing!
6. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
Once the tater tots are done, take the casserole out of the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring every tot gets some cheesy goodness.
7. Finish Baking:
Return it to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes. This is when the cheese melts and starts bubbling—just what we want!
8. Cool and Garnish:
When it’s finished, carefully take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes—it’ll be hot! Before serving, sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your Chili Cheese Tater Tot Casserole!
Can I Use Fresh Tater Tots Instead of Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tater tots! Just keep in mind that fresh tater tots may require a slightly longer baking time to achieve that golden brown and crispy texture. Start checking for doneness around 30 minutes into baking.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Both will provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor—just soften the cream cheese first for easier mixing!
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use a meatless chili (there are plenty of delicious canned options available) to keep it vegetarian-friendly. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn for some additional flavor and texture!
